With expectations to emerge as one of the New Orleans Pelicans’ top players this upcoming season swingman Tyreke Evans is not going to wait until training camp opens next month to start building chemistry with his new teammates.

He’s already getting a head start in the process taking part in the team’s volunteer workouts for the past two weeks.

With raised expectations because of an improved lineup 10 of the 15 players’ on the Pelicans' roster have been working out doing conditioning work lifting weights and taking part in pickup basketball games at the Alario Center. Next week the Pelicans are expected to shift their basketball work to the Saints complex in Metairie when their new 55000 square foot practice facility is expected to be completed.

``Its been great that all of us have been willing to sacrifice and work together as a team’’ Evans said. ``Anytime guys want to come out and do that that’s a good start. We’re looking to make a push to the playoffs and this is where it’s got to start in the offseason.’’

Signing Evans who won rookie of the year honors in 2010 with the Sacramento Kings was the Pelicans’ top priority during the free agency period in July. After Evans agreed to the Pelicans’ four-year $44 million deal as a restricted free agent the Kings worked out a sign-and-trade deal in a three-team trade that allowed them to acquire former New Orleans point guard Greivis Vasquez.

As part of a three-team trade Portland acquired former Pelicans starting center Robin Lopez in exchange for the draft rights of Withey a second-round pick from Kansas who played on the Pelicans summer league team after he was acquired.

Evans 6 feet 6 220 pounds is expected to make a significant impact because of his versatility to play multiple positions. In four seasons with the Kings Evans averaged 17.5 points 4.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists.

Pelicans coach Monty Williams hasn’t disclosed plans yet whether Evans will start at small forward or share minutes with Eric Gordon at shooting guard. But Evans said he's ready for whatever role Williams has for him.